Is Thailand facing the risk of stagflation?

14 Sept 04:43 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand faces high inflation, with surging costs for food, utilities, and transport forcing consumers to drastically cut spending and opt for cheaper alternatives like crocodile meat.
The government's attempts to control prices have been largely ineffective, drawing criticism for economic mismanagement and a perceived cover-up of the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak that decimated pork supplies.
Experts warn of a high stagflation risk in Q2 due to persistent high unemployment, declining incomes, and potential drought, despite the central bank's more optimistic economic growth and inflation forecasts.
Structural issues, including tariffs on vital animal feed imports and a need to reform the pork industry, exacerbate price pressures and require long-term policy solutions beyond short-term price controls.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.